Photo: Only One Race / Backyard Ultra Aranjuez / SourceAranjuez, Madrid
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
Saturday, 12 June 2027estimated date
Backyard loop (6.706 km/h)
6.706km D+ 200m
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez 2027: estimated date 12 June 2027
The organiser has not published the official 2027 schedule yet. The estimated date is based on last year's edition; we'll confirm it as soon as it's announced. Start sorting your gear and logistics.
Backyard ultra format
Complete format guide: rules, gear and strategy
Race data
| Modality | Distance | Elevation Gain | Max Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backyard loop (6.706 km/h) | 6.706 km | D+ 200m | 1h | 85 EUR |
Gear up for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
Buying guides with the best value for money, picked for this kind of terrain.
What you need
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Petzl
Petzl Actik Core
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
How long will it take you?
Estimate your race time based on distance, elevation and your runner level.
Historical weather
Typical weather for the race date (10-year average)
Temperature
17°C – 29°C
Average 23°C
Rain
7%
0.5 mm avg
Wind
20 km/h
max. average
Sunshine hours
13h
daily average
Gear recommendations
Sun protection essential (13h sunshine, up to 29°C)
Forecast for 12 June
Real-time data from Open-Meteo
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez, also known as Only One Race, is one of Spain’s most accessible backyards. It takes place every June at Estadio El Deleite in Aranjuez, just 50 minutes from Madrid by commuter rail.
The circuit
The 6.706 km loop with 200 metres of elevation gain combines natural trails along the Tagus river, dirt tracks and some tarmac sections. It’s mixed terrain, less technical than mountain backyards, but the June heat on the central plateau is a defining factor. Temperatures can exceed 35°C during the day.
Format and categories
Official Big’s Backyard Ultra format. In addition to the individual category, it offers a mixed pairs category where both team members must complete each loop within the hour.
Heat strategy
The 7:00 start means facing the midday sun on the plateau. Strategy centres on:
- Aggressive hydration with electrolytes from the first loop
- Cold food during the hottest hours: gazpacho, fruit, watermelon
- Breathable technical clothing and full sun protection
- Saving energy for the night, when cooler temperatures allow more comfortable running
Plan your fueling strategy with our nutrition calculator to stay on top of calorie and hydration needs in the heat.
Records and references
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez has already produced impressive results that show the competitive level of the event:
- Men’s record: Emilio Pérez — 27 laps (183.6 km). In February 2026 he completed 50 laps (335.3 km) at another official competition, qualifying for the national team.
- Women’s record: Sandra (@2rubisfit) — 16 laps (108.8 km), achieved on her backyard debut.
Free training sessions
The O1R Backyard Aranjuez organisers run free open training sessions in the months leading up to the race. They’re a great opportunity to learn the course, practise the format and meet fellow runners. Check their Instagram or the official website for updated dates.
Aranjuez: Heritage and nature
Aranjuez is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its royal gardens and cultural landscape. The loop runs through part of this privileged setting along the Tagus. Combining the race with a visit to the Royal Palace and the Prince’s Gardens is a perfect plan.
Use our gear checklist to prepare your base camp setup, and explore more trail events in Madrid.
Contact and social media
- 📞 Phone: 617 351 093
- 📧 Email: info@onlyonerace.es
- 🌐 Official website
- 🎬 YouTube
- 🎵 TikTok
360Complete Pack
Backyard Ultra Aranjuez 2026 Registration
RegistrationOfficial Big's Backyard Ultra format. Individual and mixed pairs categories.
Browse all registrationTips
- •€85 standard price (early bird discounts available)
- •15% discount for previous edition participants
- •Mixed pairs category available
- •Registration closes: May 31, 2026
Where to stay for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
AccommodationAranjuez has good hotel options and is only 50 minutes from Madrid by commuter rail.
Browse all accommodationTips
- •Hotels in central Aranjuez: close to Estadio El Deleite
- •Madrid is 50 minutes by Cercanías (C-3 line)
- •June in Aranjuez: book ahead due to festivals and tourism
- •Budget option: accommodation in nearby towns like Ciempozuelos
Gear for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
GearMixed terrain with tracks and trails. June on the central plateau: intense heat during the day.
Salomon
Salomon Speedcross 6
Salomon's most versatile trail shoe, ideal for technical terrain and mud. Exceptional grip with Contagrip sole and EnergyCell+ cushioning.
Petzl
Petzl Actik Core
Frontal recargable de 600 lúmenes con batería Core incluida. Compatible con pilas AAA. Modo rojo para preservar la visión nocturna. Ideal para ultras con tramos nocturnos.
Black Diamond
Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z
Ultralight carbon Z-pole foldable trekking poles. 137 g per pole in 110 cm length, 33 cm folded. EVA grip and adjustable strap. The trail running reference.
Hoka
Hoka Speedgoat 7
The best-selling trail shoe in the US and an absolute ultra-trail classic. Max Hoka cushioning, a Vibram Megagrip outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip in mud and technical terrain, and a snug Matryx upper. Built to eat up kilometres without punishing your legs in long races.
Altra
Altra Lone Peak 9
Trail running shoe with zero drop and wide FootShape toe box that allows natural toe splay. 25 mm stack with EGO foam for balanced cushioning without losing ground contact. MaxTrac outsole with 3.5 mm lugs, ideal for non-technical trails, forest tracks and long-distance paths.
New Balance
New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9
The model breaking into Spain's best-seller charts. Fresh Foam X midsole with a solid balance between cushioning and ground feel, a Vibram Megagrip outsole, and a comfortable last suited to wide feet. A reliable all-rounder for training runs and mountain races of any distance.
Saucony
Saucony Peregrine 16
The all-round trail shoe par excellence, with excellent reviews across every type of runner. PWRTRAC outsole with 5 mm lugs for grip on mixed and technical terrain, balanced PWRRUN cushioning, and rock-plate protection depending on the version. The perfect middle ground between responsiveness and protection.
Freet
Freet Feldom 3
100% barefoot trail shoe with zero drop, minimal stack (6 mm sole) and anatomical last that respects the natural width of the foot. No midsole cushioning: maximum proprioception and ground feedback. Multi-directional lugs for dirt trails and paths. Designed for runners already adapted to minimalist footwear or those transitioning gradually from cushioned natural footwear.
Tips
- •Sun protection essential: June in Aranjuez exceeds 35°C
- •Cap or visor with neck protection
- •Mixed-sole shoes: there are tarmac and track sections
- •At least 2 pairs of shoes for rotation
- •Headlamp for the night if the race extends
Which shoes for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez?
Which footwear fits based on the race's terrain and weather
Which GPS watch for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez?
Which watch has the battery to last based on your estimated finish time
Best Shoes for Backyard Ultra 2026: Buying Guide
The 4 best shoes for Backyard Ultra in 2026: Altra Lone Peak 9, New Balance Fresh Foam X Hierro v9, Saucony Peregrine 16 and Salomon Sense Ride 5. Wide toe box, durability and comfort for dozens of 4.167-mile loops.
Best GPS watches for multi-day and expedition 2026
The best GPS watches for multi-day crossings, expeditions and self-supported efforts in 2026. Garmin Enduro 3, Suunto Vertical, Coros Apex 2 Pro and Instinct 3 Solar. Maximum battery, solar charging, offline maps and ruggedness. Figures verified against the manufacturer.
Best Trail Running Hydration Vests 2026: Comparison and Buying Guide
In-depth comparison of the best hydration vests and packs for trail running in 2026: Salomon ADV Skin 12 Set, Salomon Active Skin 8, CamelBak Octane, Compressport UltRun Vest, NNormal Race Vest, AONIJIE 10L and HANKER waist belt. Soft flasks vs reservoir, how many litres by distance, how to stop the vest bouncing and how much water to carry.
Nutrition for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
NutritionExtreme heat in June. Hydration and salt intake are critical.
Maurten
Maurten Gel 100
Gel de hidrogel con 25g de carbohidratos. La tecnología de hidrogel encapsula los carbohidratos para una absorción sin molestias gástricas. Sabor neutro, sin edulcorantes artificiales. Usado por corredores de élite en maratón y ultra.
Clif Bar
Clif Bar Original Energy Bar
Barrita energética con 40g de carbohidratos y 10g de proteína. Ingredientes orgánicos y sabores naturales. Textura densa, ideal para avituallamientos o secciones tranquilas. Una de las barritas más populares en trail running.
Gourmet Latino
Bocadillo de Guayaba Gourmet Latino
Natural guava bar in individual 26 g format. High in vitamin C and fast-absorbing carbohydrates. Solid texture with easy-open wrapper, perfect for carrying during races. Intense sweet flavor that delivers immediate energy without needing water.
Crown Sport Nutrition
Crown Sport Nutrition 3:1 Recovery+
Recuperador muscular a base de proteína de suero aislada (whey isolate) con ratio carbohidratos-proteína 3:1, enriquecido con L-Leucina y L-Glutamina. Certificado Informed Sport y sin alérgenos añadidos. Formato de 750 g, sabor sandía.
GU
GU Energy Gel Original
Gel energético con 100 calorías y 21g de carbohidratos por sobre. Mezcla de maltodextrina y fructosa para absorción óptima. Incluye aminoácidos y electrolitos. El gel más usado en ultratrails de todo el mundo.
226ERS
226ERS Isotonic Drink
Bebida isotónica en polvo de la marca española 226ERS. Aporta carbohidratos, electrolitos y minerales para mantener la hidratación durante el ejercicio. Fórmula con amilopectina para absorción rápida sin molestias digestivas.
Victory Endurance
Victory Endurance Total Recovery
Preparado en polvo para bebida de recuperación post-entreno con carbohidratos, electrolitos y proteína en ratio BCAA 2:1:1. Incluye 12 vitaminas y 9 minerales para acelerar la recuperación muscular tras un trail largo. Formato de 1250 g, sabor sandía.
226ERS
226ERS Recovery Drink
Muscle recovery shake from Spanish brand 226ERS. Formula with whey protein, amylopectin, amino acids (including glutamine and BCAAs) and minerals. Carb-to-protein ratio optimised for the post-exercise window. Good taste and digestive tolerance.
Tips
- •Aggressive hydration: electrolytes every loop
- •Cold food for the heat: gazpacho, fruit, watermelon
- •Hot food for the night: broth, pasta, sandwiches
- •Avoid excess fibre: the stomach struggles in the heat
Best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running 2026
A comparison of the 7 best salt tablets and sodium capsules for running and trail 2026: 226ERS Sub9 Salts, Crown Pro Salt Caps, Victory Endurance, Precision Hydration PH 1500 and more. How many salt tablets to take per hour, how to calculate your sweat rate and which format to choose.
How to get to Aranjuez
TransportExcellent connections with Madrid by commuter rail. Accessible without a car.
Browse all transportTips
- •Cercanías line C-3 from Atocha: 50 minutes
- •By car from Madrid: 45 minutes via the A-4
- •Free parking near Estadio El Deleite
- •One of the few backyards accessible by public transport
Car rental for Aranjuez
Car RentalNot essential thanks to Cercanías, but helpful for transporting gear.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud Country Plus
SUV/crossover vehicle rental subscription, ideal for reaching mountain races via rural roads and forest tracks.
DRIVALIA
DRIVALIA Alquiler de vehículos por Suscripción CarCloud City
Urban vehicle rental subscription, perfect for getting to races with good highway and conventional road access.
Carla
Carla Car Rental - Reserva ahora, paga después
Car rental comparison in over 180 countries with free cancellation. Book now and pay when you pick up the vehicle, no hidden fees or upfront card charges.
Hertz
Hertz - Alquiler de coches
Car rental with one of the world's most recognised brands, with offices at airports and cities across Spain.
Tips
- •A car makes it easier to bring base camp gear (chair, food, clothing)
- •Free parking in the area
Sports insurance for backyard ultra
InsuranceExtreme endurance ultra. Sports insurance mandatory.
Browse all insuranceTips
- •Civil liability insurance mandatory to participate
- •Federation licence or day insurance
- •Rescue insurance not needed (flat terrain, urban setting)
Body care for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
Body CareProtect your feet, skin and joints during the race: sunglasses, anti-chafe balm and post-race recovery.
Buff
Buff CoolNet UV+
Multifunctional tubular with UPF 50+ UV protection and cooling technology. Can be worn as neck gaiter, headband, balaclava or wristband. CoolNet fabric reflects UV rays and cools the skin by evaporation.
Julbo
Julbo Aerospeed
Sport sunglasses with Reactiv photochromic lenses that automatically adapt to light conditions (category 1 to 3). Designed for trail running with non-slip temples and integrated ventilation.
OOFOS
OOFOS OOriginal Sport
Unisex recovery sandal with patented OOfoam technology, which absorbs 37% more impact than conventional EVA foam and reduces stress on feet, ankles and back after exertion. Closed thong-style toe post with built-in arch support in the footbed. Machine washable.
Therabody
Theragun Mini (2.ª generación)
Compact massage gun with QuietForce motor and 3 speeds (1750-2400 percussions/min). Weighs just 500g and fits in your race vest or bag. Ideal for self-massage of quads, calves and glutes after a trail.
Compex
Compex Ayre Recovery Boots
Pneumatic pressotherapy boots with 4 sequential air chambers. Dynamic compression that improves venous return and speeds up toxin elimination after mountain races. 3 pressure levels and 20-30 minute sessions. Built-in rechargeable battery.
Salomon
Salomon Mangas Running
Lightweight, breathable and absorbent running sleeves from Salomon, with a comfortable adaptable fit for variable mountain temperature conditions.
Salomon
Salomon Polaina Cuello Merino
Salomon merino wool neck gaiter. Natural warmth, breathable and odour-resistant even after several uses without washing, key for multi-day ultras. Versatile use in the mountains and premium trail running.
Bob and Brad
Bob and Brad Q2 Mini
Mini massage gun designed by two physiotherapists: 430 g, brushless motor with 15 kg stall force and operation under 45 dB. Charges over USB-C from any charger and ships with a case. The value pick for packing recovery into your bag or car boot.
Sun protection for Backyard Ultra Aranjuez
Sun ProtectionMountain UV radiation is more intense. Protect your skin and lips with sweat-resistant sunscreen.
ISDIN
ISDIN Fotoprotector Fusion Water SPF 50+
Ultralight water-phase facial sunscreen with SPF 50+. Fluid texture that absorbs instantly with no greasy residue, ideal for applying during a race. Water and sweat resistant.
Cantabria Labs
Heliocare 360º Sport Transparent Stick SPF 50+
Transparent SPF 50+ sun stick, 25 g, with 360º protection (UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared). Goes on dry in seconds over face, ears, neck and bald scalp with no sticky hands and no white cast: the format built for reapplying at an aid station. High water and sweat resistance, from a Spanish pharmacy brand.
Columbia
Columbia Schooner Bank II Cachalot
Legionnaire-style cap with neck flap, ideal for long-duration races with intense sun exposure. Covers the neck and ears, two of the areas most prone to sunburn in the mountains.
Julbo
Julbo Aero
Sports sunglasses with a Reactiv photochromic lens that automatically adapts to changing light, an ultralight panoramic frame and the Air Link temple system for a secure, pressure-free fit. Built for high-mountain trail running, where light shifts constantly between forest, rock and open summits.
Sun Bum
Sun Bum Sunscreen Lip Balm SPF 30
Lip balm with SPF 30 sun protection in stick format. Moisturises and protects lips from sunburn, a spot many runners forget. Coconut flavour, paraben-free.
Buff
Buff Venture Gorra 5 Panel
Lightweight 5-panel cap with UPF 50+ protection, breathable fabric and comfortable fit. Ideal for summer trail running races where weight and ventilation are a priority.
d'Alba
d'Alba Air Fit Fresh Stick SPF 50+ PA++++
Facial SPF 50+ PA++++ sun stick, 19 g, Korean skincare, vegan and fragrance-free. Dry, powdery finish, not sticky, doesn't sting the eyes when you sweat: comfortable for daily training and shorter races. The lightest and cheapest option in the comparison.
Piz Buin
Piz Buin Mountain SPF 50+
Mountain sunscreen with SPF 50+ formulated for extreme altitude conditions. Extra protection against intensified UV radiation and cold wind. Rich texture that protects skin from dehydration.
Best Sunscreen for Runners 2026: 7 Sweat-Proof SPF 50 Picks
Which sunscreen survives a sweaty long run? We tested 7 SPF 50 sweat-proof picks — creams, sticks and a lip balm — against heat, altitude UV and hours of sweat. See the winner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is Backyard Ultra Aranjuez 2026?
- June 13, 2026, starting at 7:00 from Estadio El Deleite in Aranjuez.
- How much does registration cost?
- €85 standard price. 15% discount for previous participants. Early bird discounts of 10% and 5% available.
- How many participants can enter?
- 180 participants. Individual and mixed pairs categories available.
- What terrain is the loop?
- Mixed circuit with natural trails, dirt tracks and some tarmac sections along the Tagus river and Aranjuez gardens. 200 metres of elevation gain per loop.
- Is it accessible by public transport?
- Yes, Aranjuez has a Cercanías commuter rail station (C-3) from Madrid. Estadio El Deleite is about 15 minutes' walk from the station.
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